In short: no. Whilst some windscreen chips can be repaired for free under your insurance windscreen cover, windscreen replacement almost always carries a cost. Read on to find out when you might pay only the excess, and when you’ll have to cover the full bill yourself.

How Windscreen Cover Works

Many comprehensive car insurance policies include windscreen cover as standard, or as an optional extra. This typically allows:

• Free chip repairs, up to a certain number per year.
• Replacement with just your policy excess to pay.

However, the extent of cover varies by insurer, so always check your policy documents or call your broker to confirm exactly what’s included.

Chip Repair vs Full Replacement

Free Chip Repairs

If you spot a small chip or crack (typically no longer than a pound coin), insurers will often cover a simple resin repair at no extra charge—provided it’s carried out by an approved glass specialist. This stops the damage spreading and saves you a bigger bill later on.

Full Windscreen Replacement

A full replacement is a more involved job: the whole pane is removed, seals replaced, and new glass fitted. Even with windscreen cover, you will usually pay your insurance excess. This might be anywhere from £50 to £200 or more, depending on your policy.

When You Could Pay Nothing

In very rare cases, you may not pay even the excess—if:

• Your insurer offers a no‑excess windscreen add‑on, or
• You have a protected no‑claims bonus and the insurer waives the excess to avoid affecting your bonus.

Always double‑check whether any “zero excess” deals come with higher overall premiums.

If You Don’t Have Windscreen Cover

If your policy doesn’t include windscreen cover, or if your insurer won’t let you use third‑party glass companies, you’ll need to pay the full cost of a replacement. The average cost for windscreen replacement in the UK is now around £250–£450, depending on the make and model of your car and whether heated, rain‑sensing, or tinted glass is fitted.

Get an Instant Price

Want to know exactly what you’ll pay? Try our instant pricing tool for a no‑obligation quote in seconds.

Choosing a Windscreen Specialist

Even if you’re paying out‑of‑pocket, getting a reputable installer matters:

1. Approved Fitters – Look for companies approved by major insurers or trading bodies like the National Windscreen Repair Association.
2. Warranty – A good fitter will guarantee their work (often for life).
3. Mobile Service – Many firms come to you at home or work, saving time and keeping you off the road.

Tips to Keep Costs Down

• Act early: A small chip is cheaper (and often free) to repair than a full windscreen crack.
• Compare quotes: If your insurer lets you choose the glass company, shop around for the best deal—or get an instant quote right now.
• Consider excess: If your windscreen excess is high, it might be worth paying privately to protect your no‑claims bonus.

What to Do Next

1. Inspect your windscreen for chips or cracks as soon as possible.
2. Check your policy documents or speak to your insurer to understand your windscreen cover.
3. Book a repair for minor damage—often free.
4. Arrange a replacement through your insurer (excess payable) or independently if you prefer—and don’t forget to get an instant quote.

In Summary

• Free repairs: Common for small chips under insurance windscreen cover.
• Replacements: Almost always cost you at least the excess—even on comprehensive policies.
• No cover: You’ll pay the full average price of £250–£450.
• Choice of fitter: Impacts price, quality, warranty, and convenience.

By acting quickly on minor damage and understanding your policy’s windscreen cover—and by checking our instant pricing tool—you can minimise costs and stay safe on the road without any nasty surprises on your bill.